Cambodia’s Tourism Industry Soars, Generating $3.04 Billion in Revenue in 2023

In a remarkable surge, Cambodia’s tourism sector saw a substantial increase in revenue, reaching an impressive $3.04 billion in 2023. This figure marks a significant rise of 115 percent from the $1.41 billion recorded in the previous year, according to a report released by the Ministry of Tourism on February 12, 2024.

The report further highlights a notable surge in the number of international tourists visiting the kingdom, with a staggering 5.45 million arrivals in 2023. This represents a remarkable 140 percent increase from the 2.27 million tourists recorded in the preceding year.

On average, tourists spent approximately 7.6 days exploring the vibrant landscapes and rich cultural heritage of Cambodia, as per the report’s findings.

In a bid to further boost tourism and attract investments, Cambodia launched the 2024 Cambodia-China People-to-People Exchange Year. This initiative, unveiled last month, is anticipated to serve as a catalyst for fostering stronger ties between the two nations, while also stimulating increased tourism and economic opportunities.

Speaking at the launch event held in the culturally rich province of Siem Reap, Cambodian Tourism Minister Sok Soken expressed strong confidence in the initiative’s potential. He stated, “I’m strongly confident that the initiative will become a new driving force to attract more Chinese tourists and investors to Cambodia.”

China emerged as the third largest source of foreign tourists to Cambodia in 2023, the report reveals. With a remarkable increase, the kingdom welcomed 547,798 Chinese visitors last year, marking a substantial 412 percent rise from the 106,875 visitors recorded in the previous year.

Tourism stands as one of the key pillars supporting Cambodia’s economy, contributing significantly to its growth and development.

The country boasts four UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the iconic Angkor Archaeological Park in northwest Siem Reap province, the Temple Zone of Sambor Prei Kuk in central Kampong Thom province, and the Temple of Preah Vihear and the Koh Ker archaeological site in northwest Preah Vihear province.

Additionally, Cambodia offers pristine coastlines stretching approximately 450 km across four southwest provinces of Sihanoukville, Kampot, Kep, and Koh Kong. Xinhua